The Clifton

Meet Luda Gokas, our Director of Front of the House and Banquet Services! ⁠

We’re so excited to formally introduce you to the truly one of a kind, Luda.⁠
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✨ How many years have you been working at The Clifton? ⁠
I’ve been working at The Clifton for the past 17 years.⁠
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✨ How did you find The Clifton? ⁠
I knew a friend who worked at The Clifton. To this day, since I arrived in America, a majority of my closest friends started working at The Clifton who now own businesses locally and were able to succeed with The Clifton as their stepping stone. Most, if not all, my friends that I have met in America have worked at The Clifton at one point or another. I always joke that The Clifton is “The Hospitality School of Charlottesville!” ⁠
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✨ What makes The Clifton so special?⁠
The people, the beautiful grounds, and the rich history. ⁠
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✨ What is your favorite dish that Chef makes?⁠
Hands down, the bone marrow and escargot. It is the best in Charlottesville. It is beautifully paired with our house-made country toast, pernod butter and lemon gel. ⁠
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✨ What is your go-to drink at the Copper Bar?⁠
My favorite drink is Poma Martini. Such a refreshing and beautifully curated cocktail. ⁠
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✨ What is your favorite part about your job? ⁠
Being a part of the magical weddings we have at The Clifton.⁠
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✨ Do you have a fun fact that you’d like to share?⁠
90% of the Clifton’s guests think that I am French, but I do not even speak the language 🙂⁠
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A picnic in front of the Manor House is the perfect way to round out the summer. Cheers to making the most of fleeting summer nights. ⁠
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Picture this: Mimosas in hand, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and delicious plates of sweet and savory creations on their way. ⁠
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With fall weather on the horizon, it’s time to take advantage of brunch outside on the veranda. ⁠Our Sunday Brunch is held every Sunday at 1799 from ​11:30am - 2:00pm.⁠
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Gather some friends and secure a table for brunch. You can reserve your spot now through our website. ⁠
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We hope to see you there!⁠
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Each room at The Clifton is unique, but what doesn't change is our attention to detail and amenities. ⁠
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Feel transported with original artwork by William McLure, custom lighting by Luke Hobbs, and bath fixtures by Waterworks. Indulge in luxury with plush towels and bathrobes and bath amenities by Malin+Goetz.⁠
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Start mornings right with your own Nespresso coffee machine. Feeling extra indulgent? We encourage you to order room service from our 1799 restaurant.⁠
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The dreamiest dinner party. ☁️ ⁠
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Planning + Design: ⁠
Photography: ⁠
Film: ⁠
Florals: ⁠
Rentals: ⁠

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer? Book the entire Collina Farmhouse with your friends and family Aug. 26-31!⁠
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This private, tucked-away space houses five bedrooms, each complete with private bathrooms and modern amenities. Collina also features a full dining room, living room, and front porch with rocking chairs. It also has its own kitchen that is fully equipped for meals “at home” or you can contact us to inquire about award-winning Chef Matthew Bousquet's private dinner experiences. ⁠
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Just up the road is the main property for you to relax at our cascading infinity pool, sit out by the secluded Lake Arabella and enjoy a delicious dinner or brunch at our highly-regarded restaurant, 1799. Make sure you also take advantage of our complimentary continental breakfast held at the Manor House.⁠
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If this sounds like the luxury getaway you’ve been waiting for, then book now: https://bit.ly/4dwbk0s
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Every bride needs a little something blue, or in this case, a lot of it. We loved all of the blue details from the bridesmaid dresses, to the glassware, to the pool — what a magical day! ⁠
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Congrats to the newlyweds! 🤍⁠
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Photography ⁠
Planning and design ⁠
Florals ⁠
Hair and makeup .rhett ⁠
Rentals ⁠
Bars and Umbrellas ⁠
Ice Cream ⁠
Transportation ⁠
Entertainment: DC Synergy via

🍬⁠A Sweet Tooth's ⁠Guide to Charlottesville 🍬⁠
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Our concierge extraordinaire, Ann Shannon, has planned the sweetest trip yet! From cookies to ice cream, you'll find something to satisfy your sugary cravings. ⁠
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🍬 DAY ONE ⁠
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🍪 The Clifton / Check in and enjoy our homemade lemonade and chocolate chip cookies around the pool. Cocktails are on the menu as well!⁠
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🍦 / After dinner downtown, head over to Kilwins for a delicious ice cream cone. The handmade caramel and sea salt waffle cone I had recently was the best I’ve had in years. Truly so creamy and delicious! Be sure to take some of their homemade fudge and delightful gift chocolates home with you too. ⁠
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🍬 DAY TWO ⁠
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☕️ The Clifton / Enjoy breakfast outside on our terrace with an array of pastries from our pastry chef Cameron. His warm scones are only one of his many specialties!⁠
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🍰 / After a morning spent by the horizon pool, head to Main Street and enjoy a flight of sparkling wine and cake by the slice at Cake Bloom. If you happen upon it on a Thursday, afternoon tea is served with tea sandwiches, scones, cookies and a choice of loose-leaf tea. You will feel like you are in London! Such a treat.⁠
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🍫 / Just around the corner is Gearhart Fine Chocolates. The chocolates are made right there, so the aroma is unbelievable! Kick back and enjoy a specialty coffee with a piece of their famous chocolate cheesecake. YUMMY! Take a box of brownies (the best!) to savor later. ⁠
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🍬 DAY THREE ⁠
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🇫🇷 / You'll have to make it over to Marie Bette Cafe for brunch before you leave town. Their sister shop, Petit Marie Bette, is one of my favorites. They are known for their French pastries, but their bacon, egg and cheese on one of their freshly made baguettes is next to none. Every single time I order it, I take a picture like it’s some masterpiece, because it is! I savor every single bite and feel like I'm back in France with their melt-in-your-mouth croissants!⁠
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Chic parasols, beautiful bouquet baskets, and pink floral bridesmaid dresses — we can't imagine anything better. 🩷⁠
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If you're dreaming up a summer wedding just like this one, then don't hesitate to reach out to our team and let us help you host the wedding you’ve always pictured. Make sure you reach out soon, as our summer of 2025 is already quickly filling up! ⁠
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Photography Cait Kramer
Flowers

The perfect way to end the summer season and kick off back-to-school is dancing to live music and playing fun yard games. Join us on the Croquet Lawn for activities like co****le and ladder golf. We will also be joined by the very talented for an incredible night with live music. ⁠
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We will, of course, have delicious cocktail creations from the Copper Bar, so stop on by on Aug. 22 from 5-8pm, grab a drink, play a game, and enjoy these last days of summer!⁠
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No reservations required. We hope to see you there! ⁠
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The Clifton boasts a very rich history. ⁠
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Among the historic inns of Virginia, The Clifton’s heritage is truly unique. Our boutique hotel on the outskirts of Charlottesville was originally constructed in 1799 as a classic colonial-style home for Thomas Jefferson’s daughter, Martha, and her husband, Thomas Mann Randolph. They built a home here and raised their 11 children. ⁠
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Come experience the history on property and of the entire Monticello area by securing our History Lovers Package at checkout. This special package includes two day passes to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, and some tasty food and drink to welcome you to the property.⁠
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Pop the bubbly — it's time to plan the long-awaited girls' trip. ⁠🍾⁠
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The Collina Farmhouse truly shines in the summer time. Book yourself a room, or book your group the entire house and enjoy all that Collina has to offer including a private kitchen, expansive yard, and luxurious seating area.⁠
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Send us a DM or email us at [email protected] for more information! ⁠
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Refreshing cocktails are crafted daily at our Copper Bar. Stop by and try our signature 1799 cocktail or order your favorite. Our bartenders know just what you need to stay cool in this heat. Cheers!⁠
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Come experience our dreamy infinity-edge pool and hot tub. With cascading plants, stone waterfall, and luxurious lounge beds, it may become your new favorite place to relax.⁠
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Don’t forget to grab a refreshing summer cocktail to enjoy poolside. ⁠ ⁠
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A glimpse of the manor house through the blooms. ⁠
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Explore our property by taking a trip down to Lake Arabella. ⁠
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Just steps away from the Livery Stables, this serene dock offers a quiet space to read, drink your coffee, or enjoy a picnic with a bottle of wine and plate of charcuterie from the kitchen. ⁠
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Be sure to bring your pup because they'll love it just as much as you! ⁠
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Looking for the perfect backdrop to capture those life-long memories? The Clifton is the venue you've been looking for as you look ahead to family photos, engagement photos, pregnancy announcements, and everything in between. ⁠
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Email us today at ​[email protected] for more information. ⁠
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☀️ Summer Escape to C'Ville ⁠⁠☀️⁠
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If you're looking for a refreshing getaway, Charlottesville offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a local looking to unwind, or a visitor seeking a brief escape, The Clifton is your haven. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in this picturesque region of Virginia.⁠
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☀️ DAY 1⁠
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🌊 The Clifton / Arrive at Clifton and start your stay by cooling off in the pool while sipping on a specialty cocktail. Indulge in a cobb salad or the chile marinated tuna from the All-Day menu to keep the heat at bay. ⁠
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☀️ DAY 2⁠
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🥪 The Clifton / Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Clifton. Pack some turkey sandwiches to-go, along with towels and water bottles, for your adventure ahead.⁠
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🥾 Blue Hole Trail / The temperature drops pleasantly as you hike to the treasured swimming hole. Take a refreshing dip under the waterfall and enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature's beauty.⁠
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🍦 / On your way back, treat yourself to a local favorite at Dairy Market for a Moo Thru ice cream cone. With flavors like mint chocolate chip and an array of toppings, it's a treat for all ages!⁠
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👟 The Clifton / Return to The Clifton for a light dinner featuring spring salad greens and a burrata salad with freshly picked strawberries from the garden on our grounds. ⁠
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☀️ DAY⁠ 3⁠
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🔦 Blue Ridge Tunnel / Borrow a flashlight and explore this engineering marvel, built in 1858 and reopened to the public recently. Pause midway to witness daylight at both ends - a fascinating and refreshing family-friendly activity. ⁠
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🍺 / Continue your drive down the parkway to grab a delicious burger at Devils Backbone Brewery. ⁠
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🌳 Crabtree Falls / Head south to Crabtree Falls for a scenic hike. Admire the cascading waterfalls but remember to stay on the path and watch your step. It’s a rewarding, moderately strenuous hike that's worth every step.⁠
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Until next time, cheers to your summer adventures at The Clifton and here in Charlottesville!⁠
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It's still strawberry season over at The Clifton. 🍓⁠
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And with Restaurant Week starting this week, ⁠Chef Matthew Bousquet has crafted some outstanding dishes using berries and other produce grown right here on property. ⁠
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Come savor some of these dishes for yourself by making a reservation online. ⁠
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Beat the summer heat this month at our Cocktails at The Clifton event!⁠
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We'll see you on the Veranda this month for some porch weather cocktails! Join us on Thursday, July 25 from 5-8pm. ⁠
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No reservations required. We hope to see you there! ⁠
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Checking into The Clifton means stepping onto a property with a harmonious blend of rustic beauty and refined luxury, where every detail is a nod to the region's rich heritage.⁠
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From the lobby's warm greeting to your room's unique charm, you'll enjoy uncovering each and every hidden gem of our property. ⁠
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How are you spending the long weekend? We hope it looks a little something like this. ⁠
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Mark your calendars for Restaurant Week in Charlottesville this month from July 15 through July 21!⁠
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Chef Matthew Bousquet and his team have created an incredible menu that shows off the bounty of seasonal delicacies and Charlottesville flair.⁠
⁠Join us at 1799 to enjoy this very special menu, which includes creations like:⁠
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🍽️ CANTALOUPE AND PROSCUITTO SALAD / Radish, Cucumber, Mint, Jalapeño, Goat Cheese, Lemon Verbena⁠
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🍽️ RATATOUILLE CLAFLOUTI / Zucchini, Squash, Eggplant, Tomato, Basil, Frisee⁠
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🍽️ PEACH GALETTE / Vanilla Bean Ice Cream⁠
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You can view our full menu in our Special Offers Highlight. Secure your table online through our website before we fill up! ⁠
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For those of you looking for a fun, classic game to enjoy outside, then ask our friendly staff to help you set up our co****le set in the croquet lawn. Let the laughter and friendly competition begin as you soak up the sunshine and toss some bags with friends and family. ⁠
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Mornings should be savored. ⁠
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Enjoy your morning coffee and paper out on the front porch along with our delicious homemade pastries. ⁠
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When you stay at The Clifton, every moment feels like a cherished memory in the making. ⁠
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Whether that's enjoying in a meal at 1799, exploring every inch of the tucked-away cottages, or strolling through the blooming peonies, there's so many memories waiting to be made this summer. ⁠
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Come experience the property for yourself by booking a room through the link in bio. ⁠
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Who else is obsessed with details? ⁠
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This beautiful 2023 wedding that turned our tent into a dreamy summer escape. Exquisite es**rt display, flowers dressing each table, colorful bars and dessert carts, and jaw-dropping chandeliers. What more could you ask for? ⁠
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Planning ⁠
Photo .p.cox⁠
Venue ⁠
Rentals ⁠
Florals ⁠
Paper goods ⁠
Seating chart ⁠
Graphic prints ⁠
Lighting ⁠
Cake and desserts

Make your next group trip extra special by having our renowned Chef Matthew Bousquet curate a private dinner at our Collina Farmhouse. His Michelin-starred creations will leave you in awe with each new dish he sets before you. ⁠Chef Matthew will also come out and speak to the background of each delicious plate he creates. ⁠
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Perfect for birthdays, girls’ trips or family reunions, this unique Clifton experience will make the people you love feel celebrated on all occasions.⁠
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Contact us to learn more! ⁠
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Cocktails at The Clifton is at our pool this month. Join us this Thursday night starting at 5pm and enjoy a summer-themed drink down by our picturesque infinity pool! ⁠Stop in for quick hello, or grab a seat in one of our cushioned lounge chairs and stay a while. ⁠
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Will you be joining us? ⁠
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